ladybug

noun

la·​dy·​bug ˈlā-dē-ˌbəg 

: any of numerous small nearly hemispherical often brightly colored often spotted beetles (family Coccinellidae) of temperate and tropical regions that usually feed both as larvae and adults on other insects (such as aphids)

called also lady beetle, ladybird, ladybird beetle

Illustration of ladybug

Examples of ladybug in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

As cold weather approaches, the Asian beetles, an invasive species often confused for the native ladybugs, seek out places to overwinter. —Jalen Williams, Detroit Free Press, 31 Oct. 2024

Release predatory insects like lacewings or ladybugs on outdoor or greenhouse plants. —Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 14 Oct. 2024

Vacuuming ladybugs up is also a much better alternative to crushing them. —Katie Liu, Discover Magazine, 7 Oct. 2024

In the book, a diverse group of children discover the marvels the natural world has to offer, from tiny ladybugs to the stars in the sky and everything in between. —Sharon Greenthal, Better Homes & Gardens, 17 Sep. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Our Lady, the Virgin Mary

First Known Use

1699, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

ladybug

noun

la·​dy·​bug -ˌbəg 

: any of numerous small roundish-backed often brightly colored and spotted beetles that usually feed both when young and adult on other insects (as aphids)